Johnny Manziel Checks Into Rehab After Tough First Season: Report

Johnny Manziel, the former Heisman trophy winner drafted by the Cleveland Browns, has checked into rehab after a rocky first season in the NFL.

"Brad Beckworth, friend and advisor to Manziel and his family, has confirmed that Johnny entered treatment on Wednesday," read a statement from the team.

"Johnny knows there are areas in which he needs to improve in order to be a better family member, friend and teammate and he thought the off-season was the right time to take this step. On behalf of Johnny and his family, we’re asking for privacy until he rejoins the team in Cleveland."

Manziel, 22, who earned the nickname "Johnny Football" during his college career at Texas A&M, has faced criticism in the past for what some viewed as excessive partying. Manziel was known to hang out with celebrities like LeBron James, and rapper Drake even paid him tribute in the song, "Draft Day."

ESPN reported that during his first season in the NFL, he was frequently late to team functions, and did not sufficiently study the team's playbook. He was suspended ahead of the team's final game of the season, after teammates reportedly had to track him down and found him drunk.

Manziel has warmed the bench for the majority of the season, but earned his first start in the professional league during the Browns' penultimate game versus the Cincinnati Bengals. There, he completed only 10 of 18 passes, and threw two interceptions. The Browns lost, 30-0.

"We respect Johnny's initiative in this decision and will fully support him throughout this process. Our players' health and well-being will always be of the utmost importance to the Cleveland Browns," said Browns general manager Ray Farmer.

"We continually strive to create a supportive environment and provide the appropriate resources, with our foremost focus being on the individual and not just the football player. Johnny's privacy will be respected by us during this very important period and we hope that others will do the same."